Pakistan-China ties must deliver economic progress

November 4, 2026

Pakistan and China have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their longstanding friendship and expanding cooperation in political, economic and defence sectors. A series of high-level meetings in Islamabad and Rawalpindi has once again highlighted the importance both countries attach to their strategic partnership. Chinese official Liu Haixing, Minister of the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the PM House on Monday. Their discussions covered bilateral relations, regional security and international developments. The prime minister described Pakistan-China relations as an ironclad, time-tested and all-weather partnership built on mutual trust and respect. He appreciated China’s continued support and stressed the importance of regular political contacts and institutional cooperation.

Haixing also met Chief of Defence Forces and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir at the General Headquarters. According to the ISPR, both sides discussed regional security and expressed their resolve to further strengthen defence and strategic cooperation. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar also highlighted Pakistan’s political consensus on maintaining close relations with China during a seminar on Chinese governance and party-building in Islamabad.

There is no doubt that China has remained one of Pakistan’s most dependable friends. The two countries have supported each other through difficult times and developed strong cooperation in infrastructure, defence, trade and diplomacy. As they mark 75 years of diplomatic relations, this friendship deserves appreciation. However, strong diplomatic relations must also produce visible benefits for the people of Pakistan. Friendship should not remain limited to official meetings, statements and agreements. It must translate into economic growth, industrial development, job creation, modern technology and better living standards.

Pakistan should learn from China’s experience in poverty reduction, agricultural development, industrialisation and effective governance. Chinese investment should help Pakistan build its own industries, improve exports, strengthen local businesses and create employment opportunities. The government must also ensure that projects under bilateral cooperation are completed on time and deliver real results. Pakistan-China friendship is a valuable national asset. The real measure of its success will be how much it contributes to Pakistan’s progress, prosperity and economic independence.